Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Treat yourself to the rich and creamy flavors of this Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta. With tender chicken pieces, fresh broccoli florets, and a luscious garlic cream sauce, this dish is pure comfort food. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavors that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy – The garlic-infused cream sauce is smooth, velvety, and incredibly satisfying.
• Balanced Meal – This dish includes protein from chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and a hearty portion of pasta.
• Quick and Easy – Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable – Swap out the pasta, add different veggies, or adjust the sauce to your liking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 chicken breasts, cooked and cut into small cubes
• 2 cups broccoli, cut into florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups whole milk

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken – In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken cubes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics – In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce – Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the pan and stir well. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Let it simmer until thickened.
5. Combine Ingredients – Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss with Pasta – Add the drained pasta to the skillet and mix until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Serve – Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.
• Use a Different Cheese – Swap Parmesan with cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Swap the Protein – Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a variation.
• Low-Carb Option – Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – While the pasta can be frozen, the cream sauce may change in texture. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• Reheating – Warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, add an extra tablespoon of flour or let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but blanch it first to remove excess water before adding it to the dish.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well as they hold the creamy sauce nicely.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use unsweetened almond or oat milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?

Make sure to whisk the milk continuously while adding it to prevent lumps. Also, avoid overheating Parmesan cheese.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works great for this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour substitute.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Store separately from the pasta and combine when ready to serve.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well with this dish.

How can I add more protein?

Add cooked shrimp, bacon bits, or an extra chicken breast for more protein.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the perfect meal for when you want something comforting yet simple to make. With a rich and garlicky sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli, this dish will quickly become a household favorite. Try it for dinner tonight and enjoy every creamy bite!

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